This text deals with the most widespread root symbiosis, arbuscular mycorrhizas, an essential component of soil/plant systems occurring in the majority of plant species in natural agro-ecosystems. The book is intended to aid the environmental researcher in finding relevant methods quickly, and as a general reference work should be useful to field ecologists, laboratory biologists and other workers in plant biology and soil microbiology. The volume contains advances in (i) the field of the development of biomolecular methods adapted to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi; (ii) the promotion of...

This book, prepared by participants of the European network COST ACTION 810 (1989-93) is the outcome of a meeting held in Switzerland (Einsiedeln, September 29 to October 2, 1993) on the "Impact of arbuscular mycorrhizas on sustainable agriculture and natural ecosystems." COST(Cooperation Scientifique et Technique) Networks were created in 1971 by the Commission of European Communities, and later enlarged to include non-European Member States, to promote pre-competitive scientific and technical research in fields of common interest. During the eighties, COST ACTIONS were launched in bio-...

Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM) is the most common mycorrhizal type involved in agricultural systems, and the most widespread plant root symbiosis. The fungi involved (Glomales) are known to promote plant growth and health by acting as biofertilizers, bioprotectors and bioregulators. The main aim of this book is to provide readers with theoretical and applied knowledge essential for the use of AM fungi in improving plant health and fitness, production of high quality food and in conservation of natural resources. The different chapters target understanding the role of AM fungi in sustainable crop...